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Police investigating Des Moines student's explicit video

Police are investigating an explicit video that was shared by a Des Moines Hoover High School student, officials said.

The video reportedly showed another student.

The case involves two teenagers and is being investigated as dissemination of pornographic material, Des Moines police Sgt. Paul Parizek confirmed Thursday.

School officials disciplined a Hoover student for sharing an inappropriate video at school two weeks ago, said Amanda Lewis, Des Moines school district spokeswoman. Lewis could not identify the student or specify the extent of discipline due to student privacy laws.

The victim in this case is a girl, and the school district also withheld her identity to protect her privacy.

Further details on the case were not available.

These types of cases are not frequently reported to police, Parizek said.

"I think that more kids are aware of the risks associated with sharing intimate or suggestive photos, so they make the mature choice not to voluntarily do that," he said.

The law criminalized dissemination, distribution, publishing or posting of sexually graphic images of individuals without their consent. This includes photos that are voluntarily taken, but shared publicly without consent.

School officials expect that as long as students have smartphones, "the sharing of inappropriate pictures and videos will continue to be an issue," Lewis said.

"Parents who provide smartphones to their children should definitely be aware of how their child is using the technology," she said. "While a smart phone is a convenient and helpful tool, it can also facilitate negative behaviors and serious problems. Providing a smartphone should be a well-thought-out decision by parents, with plenty of parental follow up."